Israeli Health Ministry Investigates Psychologist Over Anti-LGBTQ Remarks

About a week after a Channel 13 investigative report aired concerning Hila Mordechai, a psychologist involved with the Education Ministry in developing protocols for LGBTQ youth, the Israeli Health Ministry opened a disciplinary inquiry against her. The report documented Mordechai advising parents not to accept their son's gender identity and referring them to consult Rabbi Yigal Levinstein. The Psychologists Committee demanded an official response from Mordechai to these allegations, which will determine whether formal disciplinary proceedings will follow.

Simultaneously, the Educational Division Committee of the Psychologists Union issued a strong condemnation and appealed to the Education Minister regarding the matter. At Sheba Medical Center, where Mordechai is employed, a clarification meeting was held, and it was decided to maintain her employment. The Education Ministry declined to comment.

The Health Ministry stated that a complaint was filed and will be reviewed by the Psychologists Complaints Committee. It reiterated its 2022 directive banning conversion therapies, emphasizing that sexual orientation or gender identity are not medical or psychological conditions requiring treatment. Professionals offering such therapies face disciplinary action.